Richard Morris Gallery

Hi tech gadgets from ‘From China With Love’

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Just a few things from my collection I wanted to share.

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Do you think reasons like birth control, natural disaster, family planning, laws, kids being too expensive and infertility has led to the slowing down of the growth rate so that it has become the modern economic and social norm today?

I mean there’s a faster than predicted decline in birth rate across the world, a lot of improvements in family planning and basic education across the world and even China’s one child policy.

But then again

Statistics are LIES
Census are probably inaccurate.

So has it become a modern economic and social norm to have less children these days?

The birth rate has declined for most cultures, some continue to have higher rates. What we are actually witnessing is a cultural change across the Planet. Family planning and birth control have led to the decline of cultures. Large families are not the norm in developed countries and many people have no children at all.

Nearly all world growth to 2050 is projected to occur in developing regions, that is, in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The population of the industrial (or more developed) world is expected to remain close to its current size, and, in some countries, population is likely to decline. Thus the distribution of world population will shift significantly. Over the next 50 years, the share of world population in Sub-Saharan Africa, in particular, will rise from 10 to 17 percent of the world total, while the share in Europe will decline from 13 to 7 percent. The population in industrial regions as a whole, now outnumbered almost 4 to 1 by the population in developing countries, will be outnumbered by about 7 to 1 by the year 2050.

I am thinking about taking Ethics online with my sister bt I don’t have a clue what to expect bt I want a good grade.

Its about as hard as minced liver. Its an easy class. But your intelligence seems minimal.

I heard a summon that talked about are you religious or spiritual. I don’t read my Bible enough I know but where do I start reading to become more spiritual? He asked if we could say the names of the books in the Bible, what is my favorite story, etc. I remember the stories but I can’t do anything he ask. I have been away from church and just a few months ago I decided to get myself back to God.

First of all, go to the Source, and seek God yourself, without any help from the pastor. That means, start praying to him – get down on your knees (it helps) – and start communicating. Because prayer is communication – talking – to God, and listening for his responses.

When I was younger I had an awful time with this one – listening for his responses. I would say a few things to God – ‘unload’ a bit – and then go quiet and listen. Nothing. Not even the ’still small voice’. It was hard, because I kind of expected ’something’ by way of a response. I just didn’t know God very well in those days, nor how he works and speaks, so that was why I had trouble.

I got the message eventually, that you’ve to ‘do it in faith’ and that means do your bit and leave ‘the ball in God’s court’ as it were and leave it with him, believing that he loves you and hears you, every time. Yes, even the least little mutter he hears – believe it.

So, don’t strive on this one, listening until you ‘hear’ something. Just trust God, that he has heard, trust him and leave it with him – that’s faith.

So, you start off ’seeking his face’ – which means turning your heart, and your spirit, towards him and opening up to him in prayer (= speaking to him) and that’s your end of the bargain. Just trust him, thereafter, that he will respond (as they say, in ways that you didn’t expect) when he is ready.

It’s not so much that ‘things happen’, it’s just that, as you continue in prayer, walking with him, being aware of him – that he’s there – and also reading his Word and sharing that with him – in other words, your own relationship with him (assuming that you’re saved in the first place, I hope) – then you develop an ability to hear his voice, over time. Ideas come to you, impressions and this is the usual way God, by his Spirit, speaks to a believer. Always discern them, whether they truly are of him (don’t take them on face value) but, over time, you will begin to know the difference.

That, in a nutshell, is how you become spiritual – by the Word of God and the Spirit of God, starting a personal relationship with him by faith. From faith, to faith, as your faith grows and God makes himself real to you.

On a chilly overcast Saturday morning on November 18, 2006, in our Nations capital, a potentially historic gathering of a few, committed, thoughtful progressive Christians gathered in the Washington Plaza Hotel.

Successful social justice movements have always been grounded in the universal ethical spiritual truths that are shared by all the worlds’ great religions.

It was progressive Christians who sought to abolish slavery and then bring into reality the founding father’s ideal of equality of all men and women during the turbulent ’60’s. We too live in a time where all things are possible, and Christians on the left who are fed up with the neo-con’s hijacking of Jesus have birthed a think tank to counter the Rove Machine.

The Institute of Progressive Christianity may well prove to be the catalyst for the highest ideals of civic discourse and the pursuit of a humane and compassionate public policy.

After the events of that day we call 9/11, the ethics, philosophy and morals of President Bush’s favorite philosopher were neglected when this Administration chose to use fear to control and manipulate public opinion: when this Administration chose unilateral action and revenge instead of looking within at the reasons why a few angry men targeted and murdered innocent people.

Since the Regan years, the Christian fundamentalist voice has been the only voice in the arenas of media, culture and politics. But the times they have a’ changed for at this most critical moment in America when the walls of separation between Church and State have crumbled, thoughtful committed Christians on the left have united to rebuild and repair that breach and offer up a more balanced approach to faith as it relates to social and political concerns.

The Institute of Progressive Christianity already is a primary linking portal on the web for uniting diverse and politically minded progressive Christian groups that have been operating unaware of one another.

“The fierce urgency of now” [Rev. MLK, Jr.] has knitted together a diverse group of Christians from many denominations and without any church affiliations in the struggle to resurrect the message, philosophy and ethics of Jesus of Nazareth who modeled forgiveness, love and nonviolence even while being nailed to a cross.

Both Christ and the Founding Father’s of America were all about liberation, tolerance, diversity and reason, not about empire building, torture or invading other countries!

The morphing of Church and State by this Administration has fostered a Christianity that Jesus would not recognize. For the first three decades after Christ walked the earth, those that loved and followed him were not called Christians, but followers of The Way.

The Way being doing what Christ taught which was one must love and forgive one’s enemies and to wake up and see that the Divine spark is already within, to care for the poor and support the oppressed. There is nothing Christian about capitalism, war or torture.

In our Nation’s capital the inaugural team for the project to reclaim the gospel message of compassion, justice and peace was attended by less than one hundred visionaries, scholars, published authors, social justice activists and a 2008 Presidential candidate. Mike Gravel, Senator from Alaska 1969-1981 seeks to empower we the people of America to become the lawmakers and wrest control from corporations who write legislation in 21st century America.

Key note speaker Naomi Wolf, feminist author, Co-founder of the Woodhull Institute and Rhodes Scholar addressed our group. “I am here as a Jew and a friend and supporter of what you are doing. You are at a formative moment and as a social critic I see the time for a mass political left movement such as this could confronts theocracy and you have a tremendous potential to take back the country.

“As a Jew, much of what I have been hearing encourages but also worries me. You must move forward without creating the same mistakes of the religious right! Fewer than a hundred people are here, but I see this could be the groundswell for the alliance of a multi-faith social justice movement.

“You are at the Crossroads! Remember checks and balances? Remember when we had three distinct branches of government?

“As a Jew, I warn you and offer a manifesto to confront the religious right. You must separate religion from politics! The idea of an enlightened religious left is essential for the national debate and the multiplicity of voices is good for democracy. The heavily funded hegemony seeking right wing causes my tribe to recollect and worry us. We Jews share a collective memory of the Crusades and Christian theocracies that were violent towards us. There is no way a Jew can see the religious right and not think of the Crusaders! Yes, violence has been chosen as the way in all religions, but nothing is more disastrous than one who has political power to torture!

“What the Founding Father’s intended was a plurality of religions, freedom for all to express their faiths, to preach privately but enact one’s ethics publicly. Ethical practice and not claiming we must do this or that, because it is what Jesus said is what is required. We need activists and energy from all faiths to be involved in the political realm. Whenever anyone say’s God said XYZ, one must ask whose God they are referring to.

“All faith traditions share Universal ethics but demagogues use fear and demonize the other. Ethical leaders lift people up; they speak to the ‘us’ and not about ‘them.’ Ethical leaders all agree on seven principals, the seven pillars of authentic faith which are: kindness, justice, truth telling, peacemaking, generosity, the equality of all people in God’s eyes for we all carry the divine spark, and that what ever we put out comes back around.
“We go astray because this core message is so simple and universal it is difficult to put into practice.

“It is easier to perform rituals than to allow our hearts to be changed and to serve God…It is more comfortable complaining than offering a solution. It is easier to criticize than doing the dirty work of creation.”

A few, thoughtful, committed progressive Christians on the left have already rolled up their sleeves and are working in the trenches at the crossroads on the road to a new course for America.

“Stand at the Crossroads and look. Ask for the ancient paths where the road is best. Walk in it and you will live in peace.”-Jeremiah 6:16

Eileen Fleming
http://www.articlesbase.com/religion-articles/we-stand-at-the-crossroads-77238.html

Belgian chocolates provide many options that can meet everybody’s needs when talking about chocolates. Belgian chocolates have become the food of the champions, the indulgences of wealthy people, the sole favorite of the average masses, and the lures of lovers. Yearly, Belgium can produce about 172,000 tons of chocolates from 2,000 chocolate outlets all over the country. So, the supply is unlimited for your gift baskets.

Chocolate gift baskets are increasingly becoming popular. Belgian chocolates have soothing tastes that fits any age group. Belgian chocolate gift baskets can work effectively because most everybody is a chocolate lover. Some people just love chocolates with particular flavors and some don’t care about the brands anymore as long as it is chocolate. People have different reasons why they like chocolates. Some like its sweetness, some like its bitterness, some like its nuts, and some like its caramel fillings. Others may prefer white chocolates. Different varieties of Belgian chocolates in gift baskets can satisfy chocolate lovers all day. Belgian chocolate gift baskets suit all types of occasions.

Most kids also love to receive such gifts during special occasions. Rose or heart shaped Belgian chocolates are perfect for your gift basket if it is intended for your girlfriend. She could never resist such a wonderful treat. In addition, Belgian chocolate baskets can be combined with a bottle of wine if you are planning for a romantic evening. Chocolates are known to be aphrodisiacs. It is associated with simple sensual pleasures upon consumption. Some studies revealed that serotonin as well as other chemicals such as phenethylamine is responsible for mild sexual stimulation. However, giving chocolate gifts to your sweetheart is a traditional ritual of courtship.

There are also different methods when packing Belgian chocolates in gift baskets. It depends on the receiver. There are also chocolates in gift boxes already with finest materials. If you prefer this, you don’t need to make the basket gift wrapping. One good idea to make Belgian chocolates gift baskets really especial is to send it to someone you do not know really well. The recipient can be surprised that such an expensive gift is given to them. Likewise, you do not have to worry whether the person likes your gifts or not.

Low calorie Belgian chocolates are fine for health conscious people who are afraid of calories. They can appreciate it well since you are also concerned with their health as well as never deprive them of enjoying chocolate treats. Recently, some research claims the highly medicinal benefits of eating chocolates.

You can try the most sublime confection of chocolates called Belgium pralines. These chocolates are beautifully sculpted in shells concealing a central filling of surprising flavors and textures. Many chocolate manufacturers still make Belgian pralines by hand. There are also luxury chocolates which provide the best ever tasting chocolates ever manufactured. However, this is not a good gift for allergy sufferers and diabetics. Instead you can select from chocolates that are dairy-free, sugar-free, and which suits diabetic people.

The creation of Belgian chocolates is truly a genius undertaking. The manufacturers really see the importance of chocolates in the lives of many people even from the past centuries until now. These treats make people happy regardless of whatever reasons. So, never fail to incorporate chocolate gift baskets into your lives and continue the tradition in touching other people’s lives. It is only a matter of giving chocolates.

Julie Spear
http://www.articlesbase.com/chocolate-articles/giving-the-belgian-chocolate-as-a-gift-735132.html

Tired of endless mall walking in search of a perfect Christmas gift that is nowhere to be found? Hate giving gift cards or gift certificates and cash just because it seems impossible to come up with anything better?

This holiday season, find unique ways to let the people in your life know that you care. Get creative, get personal and get fun; get a gift that will bring joy to her or him you love this Christmas.

Projects to Do and Make

Instead of toys that quickly lose their appeal, projects to make and do entertain during the process of creation and then become all the more special because they were made by the recipient. A craft set for making beaded jewelry, a T-shirt or canvas bag and special fabric crayons and pens for decorating, or a small set of wood working tools and pieces of cut wood can provide hours of entertainment. These gifts also often teach useful skills and encourage artistic abilities. Some kits can be purchased with the supplies and tools included. For a more personalized gift or to monitor the quality of the tools included a gift giver might choose the supplies and tools and pick a useful bag or box that could serve as storage later.

Homemade Items that Everyone Needs

Sometimes a gift item of a usable, consumable product with a personalized touch can be both affordable and appreciated. Children’s artwork can be scanned and made into calendars or greeting cards. Lip balm, bath salts, or bath oil can be made with items from the grocery and craft store. For kids simple recipes abound for play dough, homemade bath crayons, and homemade sidewalk chalk.

Since everyone needs to eat, ready-to-make meal mixes such as soup in a jar or muffin and bread mix can be great gifts as well. The gift of something useful need not be boring. It can be a playful twist on the usual or something a bit more extravagant than expected. But the element of usefulness ensures the gift will be appreciated rather than stored away.

Gift Tickets to Local Attractions, Museums or Performances

Gifts of tickets to local attractions, museums, or performances can encourage the appreciation of the arts. Families might appreciate an annual pass to a zoo or Children’s Museum near their home. Some performing arts centers offer packets of tickets to various events. Concerts or even movie theater tickets can be great gifts especially as families cut back on the entertainment budget and such attractions become a rare treat.

Instead of focusing on things to purchase, gifts that focus on activities can bring smiles and avoid both the shopping pitfalls and the return lines.Gifts that interest and give fun to the recipient need not be expensive or even purchased. With some planning and creative ideas, thought, smart gift givers can get through Christmas with some money left in their pocket.

Krista QQ(www.123giftfactory.com)
http://www.articlesbase.com/gifts-articles/creative-christmas-gift-ideas-for-her-him-687030.html

Christmas is a perfect time of the year for celebrating, giving and receiving gifts. However, in the case of business owners, Christmas is the perfect way to build corporate relationship between them their clients. This relationship will tell you how well is your company sales and profits in the upcoming year. Giving corporate holiday gifts is an excellent technique that has been proven and tested to easily get a client retention, and a loyal customer. Never give a gift that will leave a poop impression of your business, or one that will leave a unprofessional image.

Many companies give corporate holiday gifts to their clients, customers, partners and employees for some beneficial reasons. Not only loyal customers and clients deserve a holiday gift, but also business partners and employees. Business partners, whether you like him or not, exist for a major reason and that is to help you with your business. And you should give them thank and appreciation, especially on this holiday season. Employees will also appreciate holiday gifts from their bosses. Apart from the recognition day, Christmas is a perfect time also to show how thankful you are having them in your company.

There are some very valuable benefits from sending Christmas gifts to your clients and customers. If you send Corporate Christmas Gift Baskets to your loyal clients and customers, and they like them, most likely they will tell it to their friends and family, making a good impression to many people. You have gained the retention of your clients and customers and you will definitely earning a few more in the future.

But there is still a question that remains to be very tricky, though. What corporate gift should you give?

From the lines of different business products, you may find it difficult to choose the one that can delight their holiday taste. One of the most safest option to give are corporate gift basket. A gift basket is a perfect choice that will work for all ages and genders, and people of all interests. When you choose a gift basket, chose the one that of high quality and of course affordable.

Christmas is a time for giving and receiving gifts. Therefore, it is time for you to give corporate holiday gifts to delight your loyal customers and clients. After all, this will make a good way to strengthen the bond of relationship that you have with your loyal patrons. When you give your Christmas gifts to them, don’t forget to give something that is tasteful and elegant. You may include in your list several business items such business card holders, pocket watches, engraved mugs, desk accessories and the likes. Gift baskets have also a wide assortment to choose from, either you will include edible treats such as gourmet products or you want to make a certain sporty theme or business-related theme to your basket. This won’t require you a large amount dollar, just be creative and always think unique, fun and practical. Remember gaining customers loyalty is very important for your business, so give gifts that are worth your cost!

Janet R.
http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/continuing-the-business-by-giving-corporate-holiday-gifts-697158.html

Many individuals, especially those who are newbies in solar technology might wonder how solar panel works.  But first, what is a home solar panel? This is a sun-powered gadget that collects and utilizes the energy from the sun via its rays and converting them into power.

Some residents use home solar panel gadgets to act as alternative source of power for their small home appliances, effectively complementing the electricity consumption from the local utility.

Still there are home owners who invest on residential solar panels that can fully power the home, running all its appliances, water heater and even the swimming pool. However, for you to own and install your own home solar panel that will work as sole source of your everyday power requirements can be very costly. A solar panel unit actually has an exorbitant price of several thousand dollars.

Now, how solar panel works can be answered simply. It has photovoltaic cells in the panels that mainly work by collecting the energy from the rays of the sun that falls on them. Such photovoltaic cells effectively convert solar energy into electricity for home use.

You can very well consider these gadgets as investments, because you need to shell out a sizeable amount of money in order to purchase and install them as your power source. It is certainly a serious investment as albeit you only have to spend an initial sum of money, the amount needed is really a big one. After the purchase you need not worry about it as the solar gadgets runs on its own, creating endless supply of power for your residence with the help, of course, of the sun.

Many advocates of clean and green environment recommend the utilization of home solar panel if only because the energy that it gathers and converts to power comes from the sun. Hence, the produced power is clean and harmless to the world environment. Likewise, you need not worry about solar energy running out as the supply is endless. Solar energy is clean renewable energy, and so is considered as the best alternative energy there is.

For more photovoltaic cells and home solar panel articles, do visit our Solar Panel World blog.

Ernesto Maitim
http://www.articlesbase.com/gadgets-and-gizmos-articles/how-solar-panel-works-running-your-homes-with-these-sunpowered-gadgets-643153.html